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Craig got in touch quickly, gave me a rough estimate over the phone and answered all my questions. Surveyor arrived on time, gave instant quote. Price was good. Michael and (another) Craig turned up to do the job on the day, time given. Good, tidy job. Can't fault anything, from start to finish!! Would recommend!
Mary
George and his team are experienced builders, replaced my front door with a custom frame/sidelights and raising the floor level in the hallway quite quickly - in fact, they were the only who came next day, gave a quote straightaway and were ready to start in just couple of days. They also had all the necessary tools and materials, were ready to buy something additional quickly on the day - if further adjustments were required to fit everything as I asked. Thanks a lot for your help, guys!
Dmitry
Highly recommend. These guys did a fantastic job of constructing our pergola and decking. Very hardworking and reliable. The job was completed in the time frame agreed and to a very high standard. We would 100% use them again.
Holly
Foundations, underpinning and piling are complex, technical services that require the know-how of specialist groundworkers and engineers. More than any other part of your home, it pays to invest in solid foundations, so find a professional you can trust today.
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Underpinning, piling and foundation construction – Rated People
When it comes to foundations and underpinning, the name tells you everything you need to know about their importance to your home. This specialist groundwork quite literally provides the base your home is built on. And that’s why it’s absolutely vital the professionals you use are experienced experts who know what they’re doing.
The complexity of foundations (and underpinning or piling, if required) depends on the structure you’re building, and the state of the ground your home or plot sits on. Basic foundations involve filling trenches (dug precisely according to plans) with a layer of solid concrete and then building blockwork up to ground level. Alternatively, an entire trench can be filled with concrete to just below ground level before adding damp proof coursing.
Piling is becoming an increasing popular alternative to standard footings or foundations. It involves driving piles into the ground, which are made from steel, concrete or even wood. A ground beam then sits atop the foundation, which your structure can be built on.
Underpinning is required when existing foundations have become defective, and to counter issues like subsidence. The appropriate method will be recommended by an experienced groundwork specialist and potentially a structural engineer too. The standard approach to underpinning involves excavating specific sections below the footing and reinforcing them with concrete. Piling techniques provide an alternative to traditional underpinning and can be used in situations where there’s restricted access. Not only is piling faster than standard underpinning, but it has a higher load capability and less disruption. Those benefits come at a cost though, and you’ll find piling is significantly pricier than standard concrete underpinning.
Cost of foundations, underpinning and piling
It pays to invest in foundations, but quite how much you’ll need to invest depends on the type of foundations you require. Basic foundation laying involves the following steps (excluding site clearance and the setting out of footings):
- Excavation: £7-£10 per sqm
- Laying foundations (concrete and blockwork): £40-£60 per sqm
Piling costs are typically significantly higher than standard foundations – anywhere from 2-3 times more expensive than the concrete and blockwork method.
Similarly, underpinning costs vary according to the issue that needs to be resolved, and the method selected. For mass concrete underpinning you can expect to pay between £1,000-£2,000 per linear metre.
How to build a foundation
Basic foundations follow a fairly simple process. After you’ve consulted a structural engineer and have all the necessary plans approved, the first step is to dig out trenches. Your groundwork professional may recommend a ground survey before any digging begins. This process involves creating trial holes to ensure the foundation method you plan to use is appropriate. With (or without) that survey complete, footings can then be dug to the agreed level.
The next phase involves laying concrete into the base of the trench to at least 250mm in depth. Blockwork is then built up to floor level. This method is called a strip foundation. Alternatively, a technique known as “trenchfill” involves (unsurprisingly) filling the trench with concrete to just below ground level. Both methods are completed with the application of a damp-proof course onto which the ground floor can be installed.
How does piling work
There are three main piling techniques: screw piling, pile and beam, and piled raft.
Screw piling is the simplest piling technique to execute. A small crew of ground-workers can install screw piles and brackets by hand or with the assistance of a small excavator. This method is well-suited to walls and larger structures, when used with supporting brackets. Screw piling offers a number of benefits, including ease of installation, lower costs and reduced environmental impact.
The pile and beam method involves installing mini-piles either side of a wall. Brickwork can then be removed below the affected wall, and a reinforced concrete needle beam inserted to connect the piles. The pile and beam technique is well-suited to homes on smaller plots, or with restricted access. It’s also faster and less messy than traditional mass concrete underpinning and is capable of bearing high loads.
Finally, there’s the piled raft approach. Piled raft foundations are required when an entire building needs to be underpinned, when foundations can’t be accessed or where soil conditions aren’t suitable for any other method. Piles are placed into the ground and needle beams are installed to help bear the load. A ring beam links the needles together and the structure is then filled with concrete.
When does a house need underpinning?
Cracked walls, ceilings or flooring are the tell-tale signs that you may need to have all or part of your home underpinned. Diagonal cracks, or those that reach a quarter of an inch or larger, are classic symptoms of faulty foundations, or problematic ground conditions. More severe warning signs are walls beginning to buckle. Underpinning, either using the mass concrete method or any of the piling techniques outlined above, can help to remedy these problems.
While underpinning is usually associated with foundation problems, it can also be required if you’re planning to add another floor to a building, or if it needs to stand up to increased load-bearing requirements.
The qualifications your foundation, piling or underpinning professional needs
Foundations and piling or underpinning will almost always require the expertise of a structural engineer. They will be able to advise on load bearing considerations, as well as the most appropriate technique to use (taking ground and soil conditions into account). Choose an experienced professional who holds chartered status from the Institution of Structural Engineers.
The groundworkers carrying out your excavation work should also be experienced, though they won’t need formal accreditation. A diploma, City and Guilds qualification or evidence of completing an apprenticeship is always helpful, but ultimately you should look for a proven track record of delivering groundwork services to a high standard and complete customer satisfaction.
Planning permission for foundation, piling or underpinning work
How and where you lay foundations will be determined by the planning permission you’ve been granted. This will be decided by your local planning authority, and unless an unforeseen issue crops up you’ll need to stick closely to what you’ve been given permission for.
When it comes to underpinning, you won’t require planning permission to remedy a fault with your foundations. The only exception here is a listed building, which may have certain limitations.
Insurance for foundation, piling or underpinning work
It’s crucial that your professional holds public liability insurance, to cover your property against damage. Such is the importance of this work, most structural engineers will also hold professional indemnity insurance, protecting them in case anything goes wrong with the services they’ve provided.
Questions you should ask your foundation, piling or underpinning professional
- For standard foundations, which method would they use (and why)?
- Will they be using a strip or trenchfill foundation?
- For underpinning, which technique would they advise on (and why)?
- For piling, what is the most cost-effective option available?
- Can they provide a warranty (or do they have professional indemnity insurance) to cover their work?
E- Frank Groundworks & Civil Engineering
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
E-Frank began with the core focus of providing quality engineering/groundworks services to our clients. Our pledge to you, is to look beyond the obvious to uncover cost effective solutions that deliver the same project objectives.
MTD Building Contractors are a professional family run business with a wealth of experience operating within the building and construction industry throughout the Midlands.
Very good site
Ground designs offer a professional and polite service. We have over 10 years experience and specialise in the following areas: 1. Porcelain tiling 2. Patios and driveways 3. Permeable block paving 4. Concrete 5. Groundwork’s and Drainage 6. Fencing and pergolas 7.. Garden design 8. Extensions upto dpc
Excellent job on a large, multi-level porcelain patio including turfing and additional drainage details. Would highly recommend.
im a self employed bricklayer,ive been trading for over 30 years now.my work varies from ground work ,to complete extensions ,no job is too small and its no problem travelling,im a qualified bricklayer and i have my nvq skill card
Vinny removed a rotting timber beam and replaced it with a steel beam. It sounds simple but I saw skill and experience producing an excellent job. Take my word for it because the beam is now hidden by a coat of render, looking exactly as it did before.
IMPRESS EUROPE LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Impress Europe Ltd is a full service construction company offering comprehensive solutions for residential, commercial and industrial projects. From design and planning to building and finishing, we handle everything - including new builds, extensions, loft conversions, renovations, landscaping and custom projects. Our team of skilled professionals are committed to delivering quality, safety and excellence in every job. We pride ourselves on reliability, clear communication and building long lasting relationships with our clients. Choose Impress Europe for all your construction needs - one company, every solution.
At WJ Macaulay Building Services, we provide a professional service backed up by over 35 years of experience. We can be contracted to complete all manner of building: Domestic and Commercial. Farming and Industrial. Renovations, Extensions and New Builds.
It was a absolute pleasure having Jackie come into my home to take my fireplace out and put a new one in. Jackie and his son were punctual and done an absolute amazing job I would recommend them to anybody
All kinds of building and decorating. Bathrooms, tilling, painting & decorating, kitchens, carpentry, garden fencing / sheds / gates/ drains / guttering/ decking and all domestic maintenance and repairs. We pride ourselves on top quality work and your renovation or repair work will be carried to a high specification. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail. You won't need to call us out again because the work hasn't lasted. We are fully insured and our work comes fully guaranteed.
Gary and Jean are very friendly Gary came round within a couple of hours and done a brilliant job Will be using again for other jobs
my company start from 2018. out team can do every Building work from the base to the roof. digging, concreting, Stone/brick wall, Timber work, slabbing, tiling, roofing etc. excluding water/plumbing, gas and electric.
I can't recommend Istvan and his team enough. They have recently decorated our lounge and done an excellent job with a high quality finish. Their communication was excellent from the outset and they were reliable, always doing what they said they would do. As I said I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Istvan and his team and will definitely consider them for future work.
ETERNAL HOMES LIMITED
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Raylee Building Company
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Ray Lee Building Company is a trusted family-run building business specialising in new house builds, loft conversions, extensions, and all aspects of building work. We are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, reliable service, and a personal approach on every project. We take great pride not only in the standard of our work, but also in the way we work. Keeping our sites clean, safe, and well managed is a key part of our service. We understand the importance of respecting our customers’ homes and minimising disruption wherever possible. At Ray Lee Building Company, we always aim to go the extra mile for our customers. Through clear communication, honest advice, and careful attention to detail, we work hard to ensure every client feels confident, valued, and completely satisfied with the finished result.
Beeby Construction provides a personal yet professional service
This was just a quote for a loft conversion which was already there, I needed to know if it was up to current day regulations. this tradesman went out on the same day and was very efficient. He e-mail me the next morning with a run down of the repairs and costings. I would definitely rate him.
I'm an experienced builder and cover all areas of building work including loft conversions, extensions & refurbishments. My company's aim is to provide a professional, reliable honest service. Every job big or small is done to exceptionally high standard.
The team accommodated some additional changes and unforseen jobs and any issues that came up were addressed as quickly as possible. The team were polite and curteous at all times. We have just requested some additional works with this company.
Ive been in the business over 35 years .I do all aspects of joinery such as doors ,windows,stairs,kitchens, decking,fencing,pvc windows snd doors ,facias
Frank is great and he did an excellent job of fitting windows in my garage at a very fair price. Will absolutely definitely use him again
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Ignite Developers has successfully developed and completed hundreds of residential and commercial projects in prime London locations for the last 10 years. With vast professional project management and contracting experience of developing our own projects that have added substantial value to our own property portfolio; we have grown to offer this service to private clients. We offer a complete in-house design and build service with a high level approach and focus on high end quality and handing over projects on time, every time. We project manage all projects so your requested task is hassle free each and every time. We cover a range of different trades including electrics and gas in addition to decorating, carpentry and extensions and loft conversions and much more.
Fantastic works done by the team who transformed our garden shed into a fully fitted out home office. Great communication with Nadeem throughout. Quick and efficient.
WJB General Building & Roofing have over 15 years experience in the building trade. We are known for our high quality, professional and value for money work. With our 5 star rating - we're sure we can help you achieve the home of your dreams.
We were delighted with the work undertaken by WJB. Throughout the works they gave advice about the finish for our media wall and other works. Very reliable and cleaned up at the end of each occasion that they worked in our property.. Highly recommend them.
Cheshire Sales
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Evo Be building
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Evobe building solutions is a family run local business. Our aim is to provide quality assured work in all aspects of the building trade from the ground up. Our ethics are to be cost considerate with no loss of quality, so you the customer, can be confident in receiving the best customer care. Our services include full project management and design if required. We liaise with local authority, building control and planning departments. Full architect plans drawn up and presented to your local authority. From planning application to build completion. Services include ground works, extensions, joinery, plumbing (gas safe),electrical (NICEIC), Landscaping, kitchens bathrooms, wet rooms, central heating, roofing, bedrooms, UPVC windows doors and conservatories. Please Call or message for your free quote.
Pompelli covers a wide range of building services with the highest quality of workmanship. From a tap washer to a loft conversion, we are happy to take a look and quote for jobs with all your requirements put at priority. 19 years professional experience
AVOID! Jon seemed done good job at the time. He also charging high as positions him as highly experienced professional. 18 months after the roof leaked and Pompelli didn't assume any responsibility and declared that he give only 12 moths guaranty. Council building control failed his installation due incorrect insulation installed and created moist being trapped under roof, room became dump, channeled electrical cables and cut beams, that led to ceiling drop by 4 inches. We had to hire a real builder to fix!
Dymond Developments
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Brickwork Services. We provide high-quality brickwork solutions combining skilled craftsmanship, durable materials, and attention to detail. From structural builds to decorative finishes, all work is carried out to industry standards and building regulations. Our Brickwork Services Include: New Builds & Extensions • Brickwork for house builds, extensions, and annexes • Matching existing brickwork for seamless integration • Structural walls, cavity walls, and load-bearing construction. Repointing & Brick Repairs • Repointing to restore strength and appearance • Repair or replacement of damaged, cracked, or weathered bricks • Mortar matching for a consistent finish Garden & External Brickwork • Boundary and retaining walls • Garden walls and raised beds • Brick piers, steps, and planters Structural Alterations • Knock-throughs and wall removals • Installation of lintels and steel supports • Brickwork adjustments for renovations Decorative & Feature Brickwork • Brick arches and detailing • Brick slips and feature walls • Traditional and contemporary finishes Quality & Compliance • Use of high-grade bricks and mortar • Weather-resistant and long-lasting construction • Fully compliant with current building regulations ? Carpentry Services Our carpentry services cover everything from structural timber work to bespoke joinery, delivering precision, functionality, and style for both interior and exterior projects. Our Carpentry Services Include: First Fix Carpentry • Timber framing and stud walls • Floor joists and roof structures • Staircase frameworks • Door and window structural preparation Second Fix Carpentry • Hanging internal and external doors • Skirting boards, architraves, and trims • Window boards and shelving • Flooring installation (laminate, engineered, solid wood) Bespoke Joinery • Custom-built wardrobes and storage units • Alcove units and shelving • Cabinets, cupboards, and media units • Made-to-measure solutions to maximise space Kitchen & Utility Installation • Kitchen unit installation • Worktop fitting • Cabinet adjustments and finishing touches External Carpentry • Decking installation and repairs • Fencing, gates, and pergolas • Timber cladding • Garden structures and sheds Repairs & Maintenance • Timber repairs and replacements • Door, frame, and floor repairs • Upgrades to existing woodwork Materials & Craftsmanship • High-quality hardwoods and softwoods • Precision cutting and fit
All aspects of building and refurbishment work are undertaken
Came and surveyed job but never came back with a quote
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